Cabin rentals near Ithaca, Michigan provide access to the Maple River State Game Area and surrounding woodlands at an elevation of approximately 735 feet. The region experiences seasonal temperature variations from 15°F in winter to 80°F in summer. Most cabin facilities remain open May through October, though some offer year-round availability with winterization features.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Maple River Campground offers riverfront cabin sites where visitors can fish directly from their accommodations. A reviewer noted, "It was great for fishing, and our dogs had a great time too" at their riverside site. The campground provides direct river access for anglers seeking smallmouth bass and other local species.
Water recreation: Just-In-Time Campground features a private beach with water activities for cabin guests. A recent visitor mentioned, "Came here for a father's day visit with my daughters last minute and was not disappointed. Beautiful view of the lake and functional facilities make this a pleasant stay for a small family." The lake also offers fishing without requiring a license.
Trail exploration: Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground maintains hiking paths suitable for various skill levels. One camper commented, "Many options to choose from in terms of camping, from rustic, tent to fully functional cabin lodging. The park is very large, so it is always good to have a vehicle able to drive to the trails and beach." Another reviewer added that it offers the "best hiking trails within 1 hour drive of the state capital."
What campers like
Private sites: Many cabin campers appreciate the privacy at select locations. At Sleepy Hollow State Park, a visitor noted, "Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right." Sites with natural barriers provide separation from adjacent campers.
Family activities: Leisure Lake Family Campground organizes regular events for children. A reviewer shared, "Lots of things to do for kids. Fishing, swimming, playgrounds, jump pads. They also rent row boats, paddle boats, kayaks, tubes, three wheeled bikes and golf carts." Weekend programming varies seasonally.
Clean facilities: Bay City State Park maintains well-kept restroom facilities near its cabin areas. A visitor observed, "The restrooms and showers were very clean, smelled of bleach." Another mentioned, "Updated bathrooms and big lots," making the stay comfortable for cabin guests without private bathrooms.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Cabin rentals fill quickly during summer months, requiring advance planning. At Bay City State Park Campground, one camper advised, "Can book day of until 8pm online. Easy to get into late at night." Many parks allow online booking up to six months in advance.
Electrical considerations: Several campgrounds have unusual electrical setups for cabins. A camper at Sleepy Hollow noted, "Be sure to bring at least 100 feet of extension chord if you want electricity, because the power ports are not as accessible from some areas." Extension cords are recommended for most cabin stays.
Fire pit availability: Not all cabin sites include fire rings. At Jellystone Park, a visitor mentioned, "Not all sites have fire rings, so ask when reserving if you need to bring your own portable fire pit." Most campgrounds sell firewood on-site, with prices typically ranging from $5-7 per bundle.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Bertha Brock County Park offers family-friendly cabin sites near recreational areas. A visitor commented, "Bertha Brock is a great place for families. Bringing our kids here from Grand Rapids is quick and easy." The park features multiple hiking trails and play areas within walking distance of cabin accommodations.
Insect preparation: Wooded cabin areas experience seasonal insect activity. At Bertha Brock, a camper warned, "Bugs (mosquitoes) can get pretty bad, bring lots of bug spray!" Late summer typically sees higher mosquito populations, particularly near water features.
Proximity to amenities: Several cabin locations offer nearby services. For Leisure Lake Family Campground, a reviewer noted it's "out in farm country," meaning occasional "smell of manure and a lot of flies." Cabin guests should consider location when planning grocery runs and supply purchases.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RVers using cabins as additional accommodations, site specifics matter. At River Ridge Campground, one visitor praised the "Sites right on the river, kayak rentals, pool and hot tub, and a separate swimming hole with sandy beach." Requesting specific cabin numbers during reservation improves placement.
Shower access: Most cabin facilities charge additional fees for shower usage. A Maple River visitor mentioned, "You do have to pay $5 for shower use and $5 to use the dump station." Budget for these extras when calculating total costs for cabin stays.
Supply planning: Cabin rentals typically provide minimal supplies. One camper at Maple River noted, "They do have ice and firewood for sale there, but there isn't a little store so you have to leave the campground and drive a few miles for that (so just do your best to remember everything!)." Creating a comprehensive packing list helps avoid unnecessary trips.
